Alcohol Awareness
You Have a Choice
80% of New Mexico Teens Choose NOT to drink.
What are the reasons 80% of New Mexico Teens Choose NOT to drink alcohol?
- Car wreck and harming others
- Getting in trouble with family or the law
- Sports performance
- Academic performance
- Doing something embarrassing
- Unsafe sex
- Unplanned pregnancy
- Hangovers
Tips for Not Drinking at Social Gatherings Without Feeling Pressure
Navigating social gatherings without drinking is possible with the right strategies. Different strategies for turning down alcohol work for different people. Some people find it helps to say no without giving an explanation, others think offering their reasons works better (“I’m not into drinking,” “I have a game tomorrow,” or “my uncle died from drinking,” for example).
Have a Plan:Before you go to a social event, decide in advance that you won’t drink. Knowing your decision ahead of time makes it easier to stick to it.
Say No. Be Confident: If someone offers you a drink, confidently say, “No thanks, I’m good,” or “I’m not drinking tonight.” Most people will respect your choice. You can also say “No” without an explanation or say, “I’m not into drinking,” “I’m driving,” “I’m on medication,” “I have something important tomorrow,” “I have a game tomorrow,” or “My parents are coming to pick me up soon,” “I already got in major trouble for drinking once, I can’t do it again.
Bring Your Own Drink: Take a non-alcoholic drink with you, like soda, water, or juice. Having something in your hand can help you feel more comfortable.
Suggest Alternative Activities: If you’re at a party where drinking is the focus, suggest other fun activities like playing games, watching movies, or dancing.
Stay Busy: Engage in conversation, help with setting up or cleaning up, or participate in any activities available. Keeping busy can help take the focus off drinking.
Surround Yourself with Supportive Friends: Hang out with friends who respect your decision not to drink or who also choose not to drink.
Have an Exit Strategy: If the pressure to drink becomes too much, don’t hesitate to leave. It’s better to step away than to compromise your values. If you’re going to a party and you know there will be alcohol, plan your strategy in advance. You and a friend can develop a signal for when it’s time to leave.